What is the cut-off score for the Berg Balance Scale?

A score of 45 or below is the traditional cut-off for identifying individuals at an increased risk of falls. Scores 0-20 indicate high risk, 21-40 medium risk, and 41-56 low risk.

How is the BBS score interpreted?

The test uses a 5-point scale (0-4) for 14 tasks. A total score of 56 is possible; lower scores correlate with higher disability and increased fall probability.

GERIATRIC STABILITY PROTOCOL

Berg Balance Scale Pro

Standardized 14-Task Fall Risk Stratification

Select scores for all 14 tasks
to generate Clinical Risk Dial

CHARTING NOTE

Guarding/Gait belt required during test.

Clinical Scoring Interpretation

41-56
Low Risk

21-40
Medium Risk

0-20
High Risk

Significance of the Berg Balance Scale

The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is considered the gold standard for functional balance assessment in stroke rehabilitation and geriatric care. It predicts a patient's requirement for assistive devices and determines their safety for independent living.

The 14 Clinical Tasks

Tasks evaluate both static and dynamic balance transitions:

• Sitting to Standing & Standing to Sitting
• Transfers (Bed to Chair)
• Standing with feet together & Eyes closed
• Reaching forward & Picking up object from floor
• Standing on one leg & Alternating foot on stool

Expert Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MDC for the Berg Balance Scale?

The Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) is approximately 4 to 6 points. Changes within this range are required to be 95% confident that a real clinical shift in balance has occurred.

How does BBS score correlate with assistive device use?

Generally, patients scoring below 40 are likely to require an assistive device (cane or walker) for safe community ambulation.

Clinical Bibliography

1. Berg K, et al. Measuring balance in the elderly: validation of an instrument. Can J Pub Health. 1992;83:S7-S11.
2. Donoghue D, et al. Psychometric properties of the Berg Balance Scale. Archives of Phys Med Rehab. 2009.

Dr. Nikhil Mahajan, PT

MPT-Ortho | Clinical Reviewer

Audited for adherence to geriatric physical therapy safety standards.

CLINICAL RESOURCE